Antonio Conte: Hazard must win more trophies to emulate Iniesta

Antonio Conte: Hazard must win more trophies to emulate Iniesta

Antonio Conte called on Eden Hazard to win “important trophies” to be considered in the same class as Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta.

Chelsea must score in Wednesday night’s Champions League last-16 second leg at the Nou Camp to have any chance of advancing at Barcelona’s expense.

Iniesta is a doubt with a hamstring injury and Conte waxed lyrical when asked about the differences facing Barcelona without the Spain playmaker.

Eden Hazard has to win more trophies to emulate the greats, insists Antonio Conte (Nigel French/PA)

The Blues head coach was later asked about Hazard, and, although insisting they were different players, occupying different positions, Conte says the Belgium ace must become a more prolific winner of trophies to emulate Iniesta.

“We are talking about two different players with different careers,” Conte said.

“Iniesta won a lot in his career and Hazard has to start to win important trophies in his career.

“We are talking about two different players. Hazard is more a number 10 and Iniesta is a thinking midfielder.

“And a midfielder that thinks, to stay always in the centre of Barcelona’s play.”

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